Symptom 3: Skin Lesions – An Overlooked Manifestation of Behcet’s Disease
Beyond the mucous membrane sores that mark Behcet’s Disease, skin lesions are another symptom that individuals with BD frequently experience. These manifestations vary in appearance and can range from red, tender nodules to an acne-like rash.
The skin lesions associated with BD often mirror those seen in other conditions, making them a somewhat ambiguous symptom. In many instances, these lesions appear as erythema nodosum – a type of skin inflammation that presents itself as painful, red nodules, usually on the shins. However, they can appear anywhere on the body.
For some individuals with BD, skin manifestations may also mimic a condition known as pseudofolliculitis, characterized by an acne-like appearance. This symptom can be particularly distressing for patients, not only due to discomfort but also because of the potential impact on their appearance and, consequently, self-esteem. (3)
